State Senator Aisha Wahab remains ahead in the special election to fill California’s 14th Congressional District seat, a race that will determine who completes Rep. Eric Swalwell’s term in Washington, D.C. The district lies entirely within Alameda County in the San Francisco Bay Area.
According to the Alameda County election website, Wahab has received 33,399 votes, representing 51.04% of the total counted, while her Democratic opponent, Bay Area Rapid Transit board member Melissa Hernandez, has garnered 32,043 votes, or 48.96%. The margin is modest, but it places Wahab in the lead as the county continues its ballot‑counting process.
Election Timeline and Certification
The California Secretary of State’s Office has indicated that there are 37 days remaining for the counting of ballots. The final results are slated for certification on September 25, after which the winner will be sworn in to serve the remainder of Swalwell’s term, which ends on January 3, 2027.
Background on the Seat
Rep. Eric Swalwell resigned from the House in April 2026 amid sexual‑misconduct allegations and also withdrew from the California gubernatorial race. His departure triggered the special election, which took place on Tuesday, August 18.
Both Wahab and Hernandez previously faced each other in the June 2 and June 16 primaries that led up to the special election. Regardless of the outcome on Tuesday, the two candidates will meet again in the November 3 general election, where the victor will serve the full term beginning on January 3, 2027.
Candidate Profiles
Aisha Wahab is a state senator representing parts of Alameda County. She has emphasized her experience in state legislation and her commitment to representing the district’s diverse communities.
Melissa Hernandez serves on the BART board and has highlighted her background in regional transportation and public‑service issues. Both candidates have refrained from commenting to The Center Square regarding the current vote tally.
What Voters Need to Know
Voters in the 14th District should stay tuned for the official certification of results on September 25. The winner will assume office immediately and will have a brief period to address ongoing legislative priorities before the term concludes in early 2027.
Residents can follow updates through the Alameda County election website and the California Secretary of State’s office for any further developments.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
